A survey was conducted to identify methods of preparation used by parents in preparing a child for six of the common events during a routine physical examination Over a period of six weeks all attending caregivers of 60 children ages 2 to 7 years completed a Child's Information Form Results show that the majority of parents addressed the physical exam with their children Discussion of the physical examination is the most common method used by parents in preparing their 2 to 7 year old children, whether male or female Method choices of discussion, play and reading varied depending on the age and sex of the child lmplications for pediatric nurses, children's physicians and parents are discussed.